The Abu Dhabi government has announced new safety rules for restaurants and coffee shops operating outside the emirate’s shopping malls.
The authorities, for one, have increased the limit for the establishments’ capacity to 40 percent, from 30 percent when they were first allowed to resume activities. Tables—which must be kept 2.5 meters apart—must not be seated at by over four people. Waiting areas, buffets, open food displays, food samples, shared canapes, and shishas, meanwhile, must be remain closed.
Elderly above 60 and children below, as well as people with pre-existing health conditions, are still barred from entering.
READ ALSO: Dubai issues protocols on restaurants, cafes
In addition, all employees must be tested for coronavirus disease (COVID-19), and any staff with symptoms must be rushed to the nearest screening facility. If delivery people are found positive for the virus, the establishment will be closed.
Establishments must also conduct regular temperature checks for staff and customers, and anyone with higher than normal temperature should not be allowed to enter. Hand sanitizers, in addition, should be available at the entrance.
Authorities added that single-use cutlery must be used, and that metal cutlery will only be allowed if the restaurant or café has a dishwasher that can clean at high temperatures.
Restaurants and coffee shops in Abu Dhabi has begun accepting dine-in guests in early May, nearly two months after being closed as a preventive measure against COVID-19.
SEE ALSO: Dubai Economy orders temporary closure of these establishments
